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Fall Harvest Orzo Salad

Hearty Fall Harvest Orzo Salad that's Perfect for Sharing

This Fall Harvest Orzo Salad combines nutty orzo pasta with seasonal ingredients, creating a hearty dish that's perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups orzo pasta whole grain or gluten-free optional
  • 1 medium butternut squash diced and roasted
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts halved and roasted
  • 1 medium red onion sliced
  • 2 medium crisp apples tart varieties recommended
  • 1 cup dried cranberries can substitute with raisins or dried cherries
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds or walnuts/pecans as alternatives
  • 4 oz goat cheese crumbled, optional for vegan
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar as alternative
  • 1/2 cup olive oil or avocado oil for a healthier option
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard optional
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey for non-vegans
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or fresh garlic
  • to taste salt to enhance flavors

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta, cooking it according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once done, drain the orzo and set it aside to cool slightly.
  2. While the orzo cools, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. On your baking sheet, combine diced butternut squash, sliced red onion, and halved Brussels sprouts. Lightly spray with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through until tender and caramelized.
  5. In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until emulsified.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled orzo, roasted vegetables, and prepared dressing. Toss carefully.
  7. Once the salad is at room temperature, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the top.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature, drizzling with additional dressing if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze without cheese for up to 2 months. Reheat gently if desired.

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